Celebrated artist Robert Bateman is renowned internationally for bringing the natural world to life on the canvas. A naturalist and painter from his youth, Robert has for decades used his recognition to shed light on environmental issues and advocate for animal welfare.
Robert Bateman: The Boy Who Painted Nature is the story of how a young child achieved his dream of painting the world around him and became one of Canada's most famous artists.
Using Robert's own personal photographs, sketches and artwork, author Margriet Ruurs weaves a simple story of inspiration and encouragement. A story to motivate all the budding artists and naturalists in your life, with proceeds benefiting The Bateman Foundation.
Robert Bateman: The Boy Who Painted Nature is the story of how a young child achieved his dream of painting the world around him and became one of Canada's most famous artists.
Using Robert's own personal photographs, sketches and artwork, author Margriet Ruurs weaves a simple story of inspiration and encouragement. A story to motivate all the budding artists and naturalists in your life, with proceeds benefiting The Bateman Foundation.
"Immersive…The many fine details in the images alone are a commentary on [Bateman's] work ethic, as well as his respect and passion for his subjects…Bateman's conservationist philosophy comes across clearly…[and] is offered as a rallying cry for us all."
– Quill & Quire
"Great for sharing…The basic details and highly visual presentation of Robert Bateman: The Boy Who Painted Nature will introduce the youngest listeners to an inspiring story before they encounter more about this acclaimed naturalist…Highly Recommended."
– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"This handsome book will interest readers who appreciate Bateman's work and, beyond that, may inspire kids to follow their own artistic dreams."
– Booklist
"Excellent."
– Resource Links
"Text was brief, but informative and gave Robert Bateman's stunning photography, etchings, and paintings the limelight they deserved throughout the story."
– Youth Services Book Review
"This is great for art classes, art lovers and those who love nature."
– Kiss the Book blog
“Bateman’s notebooks, family-album photographs, and realistic artwork provides the perfect accompaniment to the story told. Ever a conservationist, this book pays homage to his tireless work, his incredible artistic legacy, and his enduing fascination with the world.”
– Sal's Fiction Addiction
“Masterful photorealistic paintings of polar bears, puffins, and the like make for a visually absorbing picture book.”
– The Horn Book Online
The Nature Generation Green Earth Book Award (GEBA) | 2019 | Long-listed
BC and Yukon Book Prizes - Christie Harris Illustrated Children's Literature Prize | 2019 | Short-listed
Chocolate Lily Book Awards - Picture Books | 2019 | Short-listed
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection | 2019 | Commended
Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Shining Willow | 2020 | Nominated
